How to Use and Electrical Circuit Tester

Now when it comes to working on electrical circuits, there are two really important things to keep in mind: One, make sure the electricity is off while you're working. And two, you want to make sure that the wires are attached to the proper terminals.

Now there are a whole bunch of cool tools to help you do that. Let me show you a few. This low-cost voltage tester has two probes that can be inserted into the slots of a receptacle. The probes can also be touched to terminals.

Either way, this type requires direct contact to operate. This pen-style detector has an audible signal and a single probe. Now unlike the pigtail probe, it requires no direct contact and could sense electrical flow even through a wire’s insulation.

Some electrical tools like this wire stripper, have built-in detectors — in this case, in the handle. The screwdriver alerts the user that current is still flowing. A plug-in circuit tester like this one not only detects current but also lets you know if the outlet is wired correctly.

With devices like these, it's easier than ever to work safely and accurately.